pps proceeding - Abstract Preview
pps proceeding
Symposium: S03 - Nanotechnologies and nanomaterials
Oral Presentation
 
 

Polyblend Nanocomposites Based on Modified Graphene Oxide

Kol Adi (1)*, Naveh Naum (1), Kenig Samuel (1)

(1) Shenkar College - Israel - Israel

Graphene Oxide (GO) has been used as a compatibilizer for immiscible nanocomposite polyblends based on Polypropylene (PP) / Polyamide (PA), in addition, to reinforcing and enhancing its electrical conductivity. The localization of the GO within the polyblend interface must be ensured to obtain optimal compatibility and electrical conductivity at the lowest GO content. To affect the GO localization both the thermodynamics and blending dynamics have to be controlled. Accordingly, a variety of oxidation levels (10 – 40% oxygen) GOs were prepared using the Hummer's method in addition to its modification by various silanes in aqueous media. The wetting coefficient of the PP/PA/modified GO was tailored to thermodynamically drive the GO to the interface during time controlled blending. Experimental results using various PA/PP ratios and GO or modified GO content in the range of 0.5 to 2% indicated that localization of the GO nanoparticles could be controlled as evidenced by HRSEM (high resolution scanning electron microscopy), DMA (dynamic mechanical analysis), parallel plate rheometry and, electrical conductivity testing. Furthermore, the modified GO could be dynamically controlled to localize in the Hydrophobic (PP), Hydrophilic (PA) phase or at the interface with significant enhancement of mechanical and electrical properties with less than 2 wt.% of GO.